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Entry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Tidewater Tech

HVAC Instructor

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$30/hr

At Tidewater Tech , we are committed to helping adult students develop the skills necessary for ... Maintain a neat and orderly classroom or lab. * Establish and maintain academic and attendance ...

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All JobsEntry Level Lab Tech JobsEntry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Lab Tech information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$23

$50

How much do entry level lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab tech in Virginia is $23.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Lab Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Lab Tech, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and a relevant science background, often supported by an associate degree or equivalent coursework. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry software, and proper sample handling is typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help ensure accuracy and teamwork. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining reliable results and supporting smooth lab operations.

How to get lab experience with no experience?

Entry level lab technicians can gain experience by volunteering or interning in laboratories, completing relevant coursework or certifications such as phlebotomy or laboratory safety, and seeking entry-level positions that provide on-the-job training. Building skills in lab techniques, safety protocols, and basic equipment use can improve chances of obtaining lab experience without prior work history.

What is the difference between Entry Level Lab Tech vs Laboratory Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Lab TechLaboratory Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; certifications varyHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labsHospitals, clinics, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesPerforming tests, preparing samples, recording dataAssisting with sample preparation, cleaning, and equipment setup

The Entry Level Lab Tech and Laboratory Assistant roles often overlap in work environment and basic responsibilities. However, Entry Level Lab Techs typically perform more technical testing and data analysis, requiring some formal education or certification, whereas Laboratory Assistants focus on supporting tasks and sample handling. Both roles serve essential functions in laboratory settings, with the Lab Tech generally taking on more technical duties.

Is a lab tech an entry level job?

A lab technician position is often considered entry level, especially for those with a high school diploma or an associate degree in a related field. Many entry-level lab tech roles require basic laboratory skills, attention to detail, and sometimes certification in specific techniques or safety procedures.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI is unlikely to fully replace lab technicians, as their role involves complex tasks such as sample preparation, equipment calibration, and interpreting results that require human judgment. However, AI can assist with data analysis, automate routine processes, and improve efficiency when combined with technical skills and laboratory tools. Lab technicians will continue to be essential for overseeing experiments and ensuring quality control.

How to get started as a lab technician?

To start as an entry-level lab technician, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and pursue relevant post-secondary education such as an associate degree in laboratory technology or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills in laboratory procedures and equipment, and obtaining certifications like the Certified Laboratory Technician (CLT) can improve job prospects.

What kind of training and mentorship can I expect as an entry level lab tech?

As an entry level lab tech, you can typically expect a combination of hands-on training and supervision from experienced technicians or lab managers. Many labs provide structured onboarding processes, including safety protocols, equipment handling, and standard operating procedures. Mentorship often comes through shadowing senior staff and regular feedback sessions, which help you build confidence in your techniques and understand quality standards. Collaboration with other team members is common, and asking questions is encouraged to ensure accuracy and adherence to lab protocols.

What does an Entry Level Lab Tech do?

An Entry Level Lab Tech, also known as a laboratory technician, assists scientists and researchers by preparing and processing samples, maintaining lab equipment, and recording data accurately. Their duties often include measuring chemicals, conducting basic experiments, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed at all times. This role is essential for keeping the laboratory running smoothly and supporting more advanced research work. Entry level positions typically require attention to detail, good organizational skills, and at least an associate degree in a science-related field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Tech jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Lab Tech jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Lab Tech jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Lab Tech job openings:
Entry Level Lab Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Tech job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,620 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
Software Engineer (Entry-Senior) - Navy Training & Simulation Systems

Software Engineer (Entry-Senior) - Navy Training & Simulation Systems

Huntington Ingalls Industries

Virginia Beach, VA

$70K - $145K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Huntington Ingalls Industries rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 141 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

188th of 518 rated manufacturers

Job description

Requisition Number: 28027
Required Travel: 0 - 10%
Employment Type: Full Time/Salaried/Exempt
Anticipated Salary Range: $70,000.00 - $145,000.00
Security Clearance: Secret
Level of Experience: Mid
This opportunity resides with Global Security (GS). Mission Technologies' Global Security (GS) group comprises live, virtual, constructive (LVC) solutions; fleet sustainment; nuclear and environmental; and Australia business.
As a trusted partner to our military customers, HII designs, develops and operates the largest LVC enterprise that prepares warfighters for cross-domain battle. With advanced technologies to enable mission readiness, HII understands that preparation requires full coordination-not readiness in piece-parts.
For more than 40 years, the U.S. Navy has entrusted HII to maintain and modernize the vast majority of its fleet. With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines, surface combatants and aircraft carriers-HII ensures a high state of readiness.
HII supports the Department of Energy's national security mission through the management and operation of its sites, as well as the safe cleanup of legacy waste across the country. HII meets clients' toughest nuclear and environmental challenges.
Leadership Mindset at HII - Mission Technologies
Leadership at HII is a mindset, not a title. Through our Leadership Capability Framework, we define how every team member contributes to our mission and culture:

  • Know & Grow Your People - Commit to learning and supporting team success.
  • Build Relationships - Communicate openly, collaborate well, and build trust.
  • Take Ownership - Deliver on commitments and take pride in your work.
  • Customer First - Focus on the mission and those we serve.
  • Shape the Future - Bring ideas, curiosity, and continuous improvement.
  • Act with Urgency - Take initiative and follow through with purpose.
These capabilities guide how all employees contribute to our shared success across Mission Technologies.
Summary
HII Mission Technologies is seeking Software Engineers across multiple experience levels (Entry through Senior) to support the design, development, and deployment of the Advanced Training Domain (ATD) System-a mission-critical U.S. Navy combat systems trainer. This team delivers high-fidelity simulations that enhance fleet readiness and modernize shipboard and shore-based training.
This is an onsite, hands-on engineering role working within a secure environment alongside developers, systems engineers, and Navy operators. As part of our Integrated Training Systems group, you will help deliver software that directly improves warfighter performance. #LI-MJ1
Why This Role Matters
  • Modernizes advanced Navy training systems used fleetwide
  • Builds real-world combat system simulation capabilities
  • Supports mission readiness, national defense, and advanced training modernization
  • Offers growth across multiple levels of engineering responsibility
The following positions are available: (Role and target salary)
  • Software Engineer I: $70,000
  • Software Engineer II: $82,500
  • Software Engineer III: $110,000
  • Software Engineer IV / Senior: $145,000
Final offers aligned to level, experience, skills, and internal equity.
Key Job Responsibilities
All Levels
Participate in Agile sprint planning, execution, and reviews. Design, develop, test, and deploy C++ and/or Java software on Linux platforms as part of the ATD system. Analyze and resolve software issues, including STRs. Create clear technical documentation such as sequence diagrams, developer notes, and code commentary. Conduct developer testing in lab environments and aboard ship as required. Support installation, integration, and system verification events with minimal travel. Collaborate with cross-functional teams-including systems engineering, test, integration, and Navy operators-to deliver high-fidelity training capabilities. Follow secure coding, configuration management, and Agile best practices throughout the software lifecycle. Teammates will also perform additional related duties as assigned to support project and organizational needs
Level Differentiators
Entry-Level (Software Engineer 1)
Works under guidance to implement well-scoped features and support development tasks. Troubleshoots routine issues with assistance and contributes to documentation, code hygiene, and Agile ceremonies. Builds familiarity with ATD systems, Navy training environments, and simulation technologies. Focuses on learning, growth, and contributing reliably with limited system-level ownership.
Intermediate (Software Engineer 2)
Independently develops features and resolves moderately complex issues. Troubleshoots across multiple components with limited oversight and contributes to component-level design discussions. Supports GUI development, integration tasks, ActiveMQ/JAWS components, and lab/shipboard testing with minimal supervision.
Advanced (Software Engineer 3)
Owns subsystem development and deep troubleshooting. Leads sprint tasks and resolves complex STRs. Coordinates with multiple engineering disciplines, supports cross-team integration, and provides technical guidance to peers. Promotes coding/testing best practices and performs higher-complexity integration and testing activities autonomously.
Senior (Software Engineer 4)
Architects multi-component C++/Java solutions and serves as a senior technical contributor. Leads integration efforts across teams, drives technical decisions, and mentors engineers at all levels. Reviews major technical products, influences system-level strategy, and owns significant ATD system components and roadmap direction.
Note: System ownership expectations, troubleshooting complexity, and collaboration/leadership responsibilities increase with each level.
What you must have
Education & Experience
Must have relevant experience with Bachelors in related field:
  • Software Engineer 1: Bachelor's (0 exp) OR HS + 4 yrs
  • Software Engineer 2: Bachelor's + 2 yrs OR Master's (0 yrs) OR HS + 6 yrs
  • Software Engineer 3: Bachelor's + 5 yrs OR Master's + 3 yrs OR HS + 9 yrs OR PhD or Juris Doctorate (0 yrs)
  • Software Engineer 4: Bachelor's + 9 yrs OR Master's + 7 yrs OR HS + 13 yrs OR PhD or Juris Doctorate + 4 yrs
Technical Skills
  • Experience with C++ and/or Java development in Linux environments
  • Familiarity with Agile/Scrum processes
  • Ability to troubleshoot complex software issues
  • System ownership, troubleshooting complexity, and collaboration/leadership expectations will vary and increase based on level.
Clearance Requirements
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Must have a current or active a DoD Secret clearance
  • Ability to otain a DoD Information Assurance Technician (IAT) Level II certification or higher (e.g., Security+ CE, CCNA Security, CySA+) within 3 months of hire if not currently held.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, IT, Data Science, or related
  • Experience developing or integrating Navy training systems or simulations
  • Familiarity with ActiveMQ, JAWS, GUI development
  • Experience with Jira, GitLab, CI/CD pipelines, virtualization, or container tools
  • Experience in Navy training environments or other mission-critical systems
  • IAT Level II certification or higher (e.g., Security+ CE, CCNA Security, CySA+)

Physical Requirements
Adequate visual acuity and manual dexterity for meeting the requirements Software Engineer family.
The listed salary range for this role is intended as a good faith estimate based on the role's location, expectations, and responsibilities. When extending an offer, HII's Mission Technologies division takes a variety of factors into consideration which include, but are not limited to, the role's function and a candidate's education or training, work experience, and key skills.
Meet HII's Mission Technologies Division
Our team of more than 7,000 professionals worldwide delivers all-domain expertise and advanced technologies in service of mission partners across the globe. Mission Technologies is leading the next evolution of national defense - the data evolution - by accelerating a breadth of national security solutions for government and commercial customers. Our capabilities range from C5ISR, AI and Big Data, cyber operations and synthetic training environments to fleet sustainment, environmental remediation and the largest family of unmanned underwater vehicles in every class. Find the role that's right for you. Apply today. We look forward to meeting you.
To learn more about Mission Technologies, click here for a short video: https://vimeo.com/732533072
HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a new future. We offer competitive benefits such as best-in-class medical, dental and vision plan choices; wellness resources; employee assistance programs; Savings Plan Options (401(k)); financial planning tools, life insurance; employee discounts; paid holidays and paid time off; tuition reimbursement; as well as early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships. Bonus/other non-recurrent compensation is occasionally offered for qualified positions, and if applicable to this role will be addressed by the recruiter at the screening phase of application.
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. Our workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #3 for HII Mission Technologies.

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